Last week, Year 6 had the fantastic opportunity to visit London for three action-packed days. Despite the rain and threat of snow in North Yorkshire on Wednesday morning, the train departed on time from Northallerton and 30 children arrived in the capital to blue skies and sunshine. Their day started with a trip on the London Eye, where spectacular views showed them some of the sights they were due to visit over the next three days. It was then a brisk stroll up to Trafalgar Square and into the National Gallery, with a tour guide explaining the hidden meanings and stories behind some of the gallery’s most famous paintings. After walking along Whitehall and past Downing Street, we arrived at the Houses of Parliament and had the opportunity to observe debates in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. A number of the children said afterwards that this was their favourite part of the whole trip, as it was so interesting to see the MPs “arguing”! After a meal at Giraffe restaurant, we retired to our Youth Hostel for the night.
The following day involved exploring the Tower of London, including seeing the Crown Jewels, and then the highlight of the trip for many of the children: seeing Starlight Express – an energetic and exciting musical performed on roller skates!
After another night in our YHA Lodges, the final day of the trip arrived, and started with a visit to St Paul’s and a tiring climb to see some more incredible views from the Stone Gallery. The next stop was to Shakespeare’s Globe, where we saw actors rehearsing a scene from Romeo and Juliet on the stage before becoming actors ourselves during an enjoyable drama workshop. The final part of the day, before our train ride home, was exploring the Science Museum’s Wonderlab, helping the children to understand scientific concepts through hands-on, interactive activities.
The children were fantastic ambassadors for school, and the staff received many comments throughout the trip from members of the public or staff at the locations visited about their impeccable manners and behaviour. MP Julian Smith wrote to the school after meeting the class in Parliament to say the children were “a real credit to the school.” Well done, Year 6! It was a delight for the staff to spend time with you, and you should be very proud of yourselves.
Here is what some of the children had to say about the trip:
“London was amazing! The cityscape was beautiful – I wish we had stayed longer!” – Millie
“It was so good. I had such a blast. I really enjoyed myself and I wish I could do it again.” – Blake
“London was amazing and way better than I thought! Everything is extraordinary. I had a smile on my face the whole time!” – Olive
“I came back home on Friday with a smile on my face and a brain filled with memories.” – Katherine
“It is so good, it is fascinating. Everyone should go!” – Felix
“Great fun! Best school trip ever!” – Freya
“Best time of my life. I wish we could have stayed a little bit longer but overall it was brill! 5 stars!” – Immie
“It was great – if we could do it again I would do it 10x over!” – Scarlett
